Finding Lobster Mushrooms Near You A Forager’s Guide
As a foodie and amateur mycologist, I’m always on the lookout for unique ingredients to experiment with in my kitchen. One mushroom that has captured my interest and taste buds lately is the lobster mushroom. With its bright coloring and mild seafood essence, who wouldn’t want to get their hands on this fungal delicacy?
If you aren’t lucky enough to find lobster mushrooms growing in the wild near you the next best option is to buy them. But where can you purchase fresh lobster mushrooms locally? In this article I’ll share tips on where to find lobster mushrooms for sale and how to identify high quality specimens. Let’s get started!
What is the Lobster Mushroom?
First, a quick primer on what makes this mushroom so special. Lobster mushrooms are parasitic fungi that take over other mushroom species, transforming them into something entirely new. Russula and Lactarius mushrooms are common hosts.
When infected by the Hypomyces lactifluorum parasite, they turn from pale white to a striking reddish-orange color. Their texture also changes from brittle to dense and firm, reminiscent of cooked seafood. Even the flavor evolves into something faintly oceanic and sweet.
While they are found across North America, lobster mushrooms have a short seasonal window from midsummer into fall. So timing is key if you want to eat these fleeting fungi. Keep reading for tips on where to buy them fresh.
Check Your Local Farmers Market
Farmer’s markets are a great place to find freshly foraged mushrooms like lobsters from late summer through fall. Vendors often sell seasonal wild mushrooms collected locally in your area. The bonus is you can talk directly with the forager and learn exactly where and when they were harvested.
Some tips for finding lobster mushrooms at markets:
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Scout out mushroom vendors ahead of time and ask if they plan to sell lobster mushrooms this season.
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Time your market visits for peak season – August & September in most regions.
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Inspect specimens carefully for freshness – avoid any wilted or mushy mushrooms.
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Buy only what you will use within a few days and keep refrigerated.
For the freshest lobster mushrooms, farmer’s markets can’t be beat. Support local foragers while getting to know the source of your food.
Natural Food Stores
Another good option for finding lobster mushrooms is your local natural or specialty grocer. Stores like Whole Foods, Sprouts, Earth Fare, etc. tend to sell more exotic varieties of produce, meat, and yes…mushrooms.
Due to their short growing season, fresh lobster mushrooms may only be available for a few weeks in the fall at these retailers. Check the produce section regularly from late summer through October to try and catch them in stock.
Even when not in season, some natural food stores sell dried lobster mushrooms which are handy for adding intense umami flavor to dishes all year long. Rehydrate in warm water before using.
Online Foraging Shops
For the widest selection, scope out online mushroom foraging shops. These vendors sell hard-to-find wild edible mushrooms sustainably foraged from diverse regions. Depending on location, some ship fresh lobster mushrooms packed with ice to deliver prime quality.
Here are some top online sources to buy lobster mushrooms:
Check seller reviews and read up on their foraging practices to find a company you feel good about supporting.
What to Look for When Buying
Whether shopping online, at stores, or markets, keep these tips in mind when buying lobster mushrooms:
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Seek out vendors who wild-forage, don’t commercially farm. Wild provides superior flavor.
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Select mushrooms free of blemishes, wilting, or dampness which indicates spoilage.
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Raw mushrooms should feel firm and dense, not soft or hollow.
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Bright, vivid orange-red color and distinct seafood smell are ideal.
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Target mature medium or large size mushrooms around 2-6 inches wide.
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Opt for quantity less than 1 lb unless planning to preserve or dry extra.
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Avoid using plastic which can trap moisture. Paper bags allow respiration.
Proper handling is also key after purchasing lobster mushrooms. Follow the tips below.
Handling Lobster Mushrooms After Buying
To keep your lobster mushrooms fresh after bringing them home:
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Store in the refrigerator in an open container or paper bag. Don’t seal in plastic.
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Use within 3-5 days for highest quality. The aroma and texture decline after that.
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Rinse or brush clean just before cooking. Avoid washing until ready to use.
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Slice away any damaged portions before preparing.
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Cook thoroughly before consuming. Sauté, roast, or simmer to enhance unique flavor.
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To extend shelf life, dehydrate excess mushrooms using a food dehydrator.
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Once dried, store in an airtight container for up to one year.
Finding elusive lobster mushrooms close to home just takes a bit of strategy and perfect timing. I hope these tips help you source fresh lobster mushrooms in your area. Nothing beats their sweet shellfish essence when eaten at peak freshness.
Lobster Mushroom vs Chanterelle
Chanterelles are very different from Lobster mushrooms in terms of color, flavor, aroma and texture. As such, they complement each other nicely. Lobster’s dense texture and bright red color go well with fresh Chanterelles’ lighter body and fruity flavors. We cook them together when their seasons overlap in late summer.
Where do Lobster Mushrooms Grow?
In the United States, Lobster mushrooms grow in the Northeast and on the West Coast. Fresh & Wild sources their Lobster mushrooms from the forests of Oregon and Washington state.